Rigaku Application Note #1619 describes a method using energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) for the measurement of titanium conversion coating, and demonstrates the effectiveness of the Rigaku NEX QC   high-resolution benchtop EDXRF analyzer in the quality control (QC) process during the production of coated product. Information regarding sample preparation, calibration and repeatability is presented in the application note.

Aluminum is often coated with a protective coating to prevent oxidation and corrosion. Such conversion coatings include chromium (Cr), titanium, vanadium (V), manganese (Mn), nickel (Ni), and zirconium (Zr). These coatings are often used on aircraft parts, aluminum window frames and in other industries where the aluminum is exposed to weathering. Conversion coatings also help in the retention of paint on finished products.

The method described in the application note presents EDXRF spectrometry as an affordable means of optimizing quality while minimizing costs and reducing waste.  For the analysis detailed in the report, a test coupon is placed flat in the sample chamber with the coated side facing the X-ray beam. An empirical calibration was built using a set of standards assayed by a careful weigh-strip-weigh process. The bare, uncoated aluminum sample was measured to generate a special background correction that automatically compensates for the specific amount of background signal in each sample measured.

Measurements were performed using the Rigaku NEX QC EDXRF analyzer. The results shown in the report demonstrate that the instrument provides excellent sensitivity and performance for the measurement of titanium conversion coatings on aluminum.

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